thanks AKGuy, I like the BLR, but not enough to buy one. You may not want to hear it, but if I was getting a lever gun, I'd go with the Marlin 336 in 35 Remington. I may still buy a 336 yet but not this time.
If you all don't mind watching this saga unfold a few more days, I'll throw another wrench into my gun buying machinery. A cousin (who is one of the few other shooters/hunters in the close family) shows up for Christmas dinner yesterday and afterwards we step outside for a breath of "smoky" air. He had one of his turd eatin grins on his face and said come out to the truck. I never know what to expect from him because he has shown up with all kinds of dead animals in his truck.
Anyway, he pulls a guncase out from behind the seat and uncases a Remington 798 in 30.06. I had seen them at Academy and thought they were okay, but really just wanted a shorter and lighter rifle. Anyway, aforementioned cousin has always hunted with a "beat to hell" 7400 in 30.06 and swore he'd never own a bolt action. I asked why he bought it and he said he was in there buying some stuff, stopped at the gun counter on the way to check out, and let the gun counter guy sell it to him.
The more I held it, the more I liked it. The action left a little to be desired, but I figure that will work itself out. We're going shooting tommorrow if it doesn't storm, and I may have to consider it. It is definitely more economical than the Model 7 and I could use the extra money for better glass and more ammo.
I only wish I knew someone with a little Model Seven, so I could test it out too.
